The Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was a breed which was developed in the early days by crossing the bulldog with the terriers of the day. This produced a dog with a tenacious bite and seemingly limitless endurance for punishment. As early as the 1500s bull baiting and bear baiting was a “sport” in the British Isles. In modern times this has been abolished, but unscrupulous persons still participate in “pit fights” where dogs are pitted against each other and bets are placed. This is still going on in many parts of the world, even though the participants in most places are subject to heavy fines and jail terms.

Unfortunately because of the reputation of the pitbull types of dogs, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier has joined the ranks of those dogs which are outlawed in many communities. The truly bred Staffordshire Bull Terrier is less common, however, than the Pitbull Terrier and is bred by responsible breeders as a show dog. This has protected its existence somewhat, as many breeders will sell only to other breeders or on contracts that the dogs be spayed or neutered.

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of the breeds which was originally bred to be a fighting dog. It has become more refined from the earlier specimens which were generally a mixed lot in appearance. The appearance of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier is blocky. The dog has the easy care short smooth coat common to these breeds and minimal care is needed to keep him clean. Colors can be red, fawn, white, black or blue, or any of these colors with white, or any shade of brindle or any shade of brindle with white. The skull is short and deep with pronounced cheek muscles making the head appear quite chunky. Ears are rose ears or half prick and small. The tail is not docked and of medium length. The front is broad with a deep chest and legs should be straight and not bowed as those of the Bulldog . The dog should be of medium size, standing 14-16 inches at the shoulder and weighing 28-30 pounds. If kept in good condition, this s a dog that can run for hours and makes a perfect joggers companion.

There are few genetic conditions. One of the benefits of the dogs’ genetic inheritance is that its skin is tough and the dog is tough. Any wounds heal quickly and there are usually very few reasons for a Staffordshire Bull Terrier to visit the vet. Today the Staffordshire Bull has a uniform appearance and is being bred by true fanciers of the breed as a show dog and household companion. This particular breed generally has none of the qualities of aggression towards people that is sometimes exhibited by many of the other breeds of the “pitbull” origin. If brought up responsibly and socialized with people at a young age this breed is considered a wonderful companion for children. With its tail always wagging and its face always “smiling” the Staffordshire Bull will allow any amount of mauling from the children in the household and is an easygoing and friendly pet. He is generous in nature and forgiving, easy to train and willing to please.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Dogs